observer

noun

ob·​serv·​er əb-ˈzər-vər How to pronounce observer (audio)
Synonyms of observernext
: one that observes: such as
a
: a representative sent to observe but not participate officially in an activity (such as a meeting or war)
b
: an expert analyst and commentator in a particular field
political observers

Synonyms of observer

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Examples of observer in a Sentence

According to one observer, the event was poorly organized. The star is not visible to an observer without a telescope. According to one military observer, this change comes after years of planning. Observers say the economy is improving. The class has an observer today, so please be on your best behavior.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But immediately the hackles of observers around the soccer world were raised. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 7 July 2026 To some close observers, the offer signaled that Regan may have been looking for a way out of an expensive ballot fight. — Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026 When hand recounts are conducted, election deniers latch onto hand-count methodology and observers to allege the process was also rigged. — The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 7 July 2026 But by playing coy about next steps, Hamas has given observers and critics plenty of reasons to be suspicious about this latest development. — Rafi Schwartz, TheWeek, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for observer

Word History

Etymology

observe + -er entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of observer was circa 1550

Phrases Containing observer

Rhymes for observer

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Browse Nearby Words

observedly
observer
observe the social amenities
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Cite this Entry

“Observer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/observer. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on observer

Nglish: Translation of observer for Spanish Speakers

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